BMW confirms Sykes for 2020 World Superbike campaign

Tom Sykes will remain part of the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team for the 2020 season, the German manufacturer has confirmed.

Sykes teamed up with BMW on its return as a factory effort, run by Shaun Muir Racing, at the start of 2019 equipped with the new S1000RR.

The 2013 World Superbike champion has claimed three podiums and one pole position so far this season, showing instant speed on the BMW, and has duly been retained for next season.

The confirmation of Sykes completes the team’s 2020 line-up having already signed Eugene Laverty who will replace Markus Reiterberger.

“I’m very excited and proud to be continuing in to the 2020 season with the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team,” Sykes said. “After such a successful year so far with the all new BMW S1000RR, which is still very early in its development gives me great motivation moving forward.

“I really enjoy the development part and we are certainly moving in a strong way. Of course, with the support from the whole of the team and the prestigious BMW brand my expectations for the 2020 season will certainly move higher and back to where I feel most natural.

“I will also take this moment to welcome Eugene onboard, I am looking forward to having him as a team mate for 2020.”

While Sykes had been expected to be retained by BMW given his development work and success on track this year, BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Marc Bongers says ensuring continuity through the British rider is “critical” to its plan.

“Continuity and stability are critical factors for the success of a project,” Bongers said. “Tom Sykes has consistently moved in a forward direction with the new BMW S1000RR.

“This is the fruit of harmonious collaboration. Which is why we are delighted to be continuing this shared journey in the upcoming season.”